A mangrove-fringed lagoon a short ride from Arugam Bay, explored by boat safari for elephants, crocodiles and abundant birdlife.

Overview

Pottuvil Lagoon is a shallow, mangrove-lined lagoon just a few kilometres north of Arugam Bay, one of the district's most rewarding wildlife experiences. Small boats glide through narrow mangrove channels and across open water to a tiny central island, past feeding elephants, basking crocodiles and more than two hundred species of birds, including egrets, kingfishers and eagles. The two-to-three-hour safari ends near the estuary where the lagoon meets the Indian Ocean, and is best taken in the soft light of early morning or late afternoon.

History

The lagoon has long supported the fishing communities around Pottuvil town. In recent decades its mangroves have been recognised as an important ecosystem and nursery for fish and birdlife, and community-run boat safaris have grown into a popular eco-tourism activity alongside the Arugam Bay surf scene.